manuscripta

Manuscripta is a term derived from Latin, meaning "written by hand." It refers to any document that has been written or transcribed by hand rather than printed or produced by mechanical means. Historically, manuscripts were the primary form of written communication and record-keeping before the invention of the printing press. These documents can range from ancient scrolls and codices to more modern handwritten letters, diaries, and literary drafts.

The study and preservation of manuscripts fall under the discipline of manuscriptology, which examines their physical characteristics, historical context, content, and authorship. Manuscripts are often housed in libraries, archives, and private collections, and they serve as invaluable sources for understanding history, literature, religion, and culture. Many ancient manuscripts are fragile and require specialized care to prevent deterioration.

The transition from manuscript culture to print culture had a profound impact on the dissemination of knowledge and the standardization of texts. However, handwritten documents continued to be significant for personal correspondence, official records, and artistic expression long after the advent of printing. Today, digital manuscripts and e-books represent a new evolution in written forms, though the term "manuscript" continues to evoke the tangible, handcrafted nature of older written works.